Software Developer - Drone Systems

At Vertex, you won't just write software-you'll put it in the air. As a Software Developer on our drone systems team, you'll build the code that powers intelligent, autonomous sUAS platforms from initial prototype to flight test. Working alongside autonomy and electrical engineers, your work will compress development cycles from months to days and define how next-generation aircraft think, navigate, and operate.

What you'll build

• Software for flight controllers, autonomy pipelines, and mission systems that bridges digital design with physical, airborne hardware
• Tools and scripts to accelerate rapid iteration-logging, simulation harnesses, ground control integrations, and test infrastructure
• Firmware integrations across ESCs, sensors, communication links, and payload systems
• Data pipelines that turn raw flight telemetry into actionable engineering insight after each test
• Collaborative interfaces between mechanical, electrical, and autonomy stacks-owning the software layer that ties it all together
• Contributions to material and tooling selection for new manufacturing and software technologies as the platform evolves

Do you have experience in Manufacturing?, * U.S. Citizenship

• FAA Part 107 Pilot License
• 3+ years of experience in mechanical design, robotics, or a related field with a portfolio of hands-on projects.
• Expertise in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360, CATIA, or similar).
• Deep, hands-on experience with various 3D printing technologies (FDM, SLA, etc.), including slicer software, printer operation, and maintenance.
• Strong understanding of additive manufacturing materials and their properties (e.g., PLA, ABS, PETG, Nylon, Carbon Fiber composites).
• Proven experience assembling and troubleshooting complex electro-mechanical systems.
• Comfortable with soldering, wiring, and basic electronics integration.
• A fundamental understanding of drone components (flight controllers, ESCs, motors, communication links) and basic aerodynamic principles., * A passion for the drone hobby, including experience building and flying FPV drones.
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience with other fabrication methods like CNC machining or carbon fiber molding.
• Familiarity with flight controller firmware (e.g., Betaflight, ArduPilot, PX4).
• Experience using FEA or CFD simulation tools to analyze and validate designs.

Pay: $67,861.64 - $85,811.87 per year

License/Certification:

• FAA Part 107 (Preferred)

$67,861.64 - $85,811.87 a year - Full-time, Contract